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What Is the Recovery Time for Nasolabial Fold Surgery? 

Thomas Loeb | September 6, 2024 | Posted in Nasolabial Fold Treatment

The recovery time for nasolabial fold surgery is about ten days, although some need up to two weeks to return to normal activities. The swelling typically peaks on the second and third days and dissipates afterward. However, It’s important to note that every patient’s recovery will differ slightly. Follow your discharge instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to take more time off work if you need it. 

Trust board-certified plastic surgeon Thomas Loeb, M.D., in NYC for nasolabial fold surgery and excellent aftercare. His expertise has been instrumental in enhancing and perfecting techniques, ensuring patients experience the best and most refined outcomes in their cosmetic procedures. Our beautiful Fifth Avenue office has been fully accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Facilities. Call today to schedule a consultation.  

What Is Nasolabial Fold Surgery? 

Nasolabial fold surgery is a highly effective option for people dissatisfied with the look of deep smile lines, the folds that appear on either side of the mouth. While other treatments, such as dermal fillers, microdermabrasion, facelifts, and buccal fat removal, can minimize these folds, severe nasolabial folds will respond best to surgery. 

If you’re thinking of getting plastic surgery for your smile lines, the most important step to take is to find a highly credentialed, board-certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience performing these surgeries. They will give you all the information you need to make an informed decision about the procedure and plan for your recovery. 

What’s the Recovery Time Like? 

You’ll be monitored immediately after the surgery to ensure your health and safety, and can return home within a few hours. You should have a responsible adult take you home; don’t try to drive yourself. 

During the first week or two of the recovery time, you can expect to experience moderate bruising, swelling, and tenderness in the treated area. Most people can return to light activities in 10 days to two weeks. The swelling typically peaks on the second and third days and dissipates afterward. By the second day, you should have minimal to no pain; any discomfort you experience can be managed with medications. 

Although you can resume light activities, including work, in two weeks or sooner, it may take another week or two to fully heal from the procedure. 

Is the Surgery Performed Under General Anesthesia? 

While many plastic surgeries are performed under general anesthesia, a nasolabial fold excision is fairly straightforward and doesn’t require this level of sedation. The benefit of local anesthesia is that you won’t be groggy afterward. 

What Should I Do During the Recovery Time? 

Follow your discharge instructions carefully, and never hesitate to call the clinic with any questions or concerns. Get plenty of rest, take all medications as prescribed, and apply the antibiotic cream (if applicable) as directed. It’s also important to avoid sleeping on your face during recovery. Consider investing in a wedge pillow to elevate your head. 

Consult Dr. Thomas Loeb, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in NYC 

Dr. Thomas Loeb, a highly credentialed plastic surgeon in Manhattan, has extensive experience performing nasolabial fold excisions. With an emphasis on patient health and safety, Dr. Loeb always ensures that his patients are fully informed about what to expect and how to prepare for recovery.  

If you’re dissatisfied with the look of severe nasolabial folds, schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Loeb in Manhattan and find out if this procedure could be right for you. 

← How Long Do Labiaplasty Results Last?  Can You Surgically Remove Nasolabial Folds?  →

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